Los Angeles Lakers: 3 latest rumors on free agency targets, draft plans
Mitchell Robinson a legitimate target for Lakers
There has been A LOT of chatter about the Lakers’ overflowing interest in Mitchell Robinson. I mean, it’s gotten to the point of overkill. We get it — he’s an exciting, high-upside prospect Magic would love to have.
Here’s the problem: plenty of other teams are probably interested, too.
At this moment, the Lakers own the No. 25 overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft. They also own a rather expansive amount of interest in using said pick on Robinson. At least, that’s according to the New York Times‘ Adam Zagoria:
The Lakers are seriously considering taking Mitchell Robinson at 25, per League source. https://t.co/8Cfl24JheN
— Adam Zagoria (@AdamZagoria) May 30, 2018
Well, it makes perfect sense, right?
Robinson is seen as one of the true wild cards of the 2018 NBA Draft class. Despite not playing any form of organized basketball in 2017 after bailing on Western Kentucky before the season, he’s a former five-star recruit with amazing athleticism for his size. His shot-blocking and rebounding skills are thought to be through the roof, and he’s displayed a solid stroke from 3-point range as well.
Very impressive workout for Mitchell Robinson tonight. Thought he helped himself quite a bi reminding teams of just how talented he is. Physical outlier with huge potential defensively as well as very soft touch https://t.co/LWfPmBA4N8
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) May 31, 2018
My concern here is if Robinson makes it anywhere near the 25th pick. As teams start to see the type of upside he possesses, I could easily see him making his way up draft boards. Some front offices will certainly be scared away by his rawness and lack of high-level basketball experience, but the physical tools may be too overwhelming to ignore.
Related Story: Reasons Lakers must be wary of Mitchell Robinson
One way or another, Robinson is going to get his shot in the NBA. Whether it’s in Los Angeles or somewhere else is a completely different question. I have no doubt the Lakers are interested, but it may not matter when draft day rolls around.